Major League Soccer's Best XI for 2009

November 16, 2009 12:00 AM

Goalkeeper

Zach Thornton, Chivas USA

The 14-year MLS veteran was voted the 2009 Goalkeeper of the Year and Comeback Player of the Year after leading all goalkeepers with 0.87 goals against average and 12 shutouts, and leading Chivas USA to a fourth consecutive playoff appearance.

Cameron was a finalist for Defender of the Year and earned his first spot in the Best XI. He played 29 games this season, recording two goals and six assists and was a defensive force for a team that allowed a league-low 29 goals.

The six-year MLS veteran has established himself as the top center back in League. This season he anchored a Columbus defense that allowed only 31 goals, en route to its second straight Supporters’ Shield. Marshall was honored as Defender of the Year for the second straight season. He also scored four goals.

Holden had a breakout season in 2009, starting a career-high 26 games and scoring a career-high six goals. Holden also became a regular for the U.S. national team in 2009. This is Holden's first Best XI nod.

The former Dynamo star kept up his stellar play in his new home. He had 11 goals and six assists for Toronto FC. He is the first player to be named to the Best XI with three different clubs (San Jose, Houston, Toronto).

A perennial All-Star, Joseph logged career highs with eight goals and eight assists. He led his team in scoring and was named to his sixth consecutive All-Star team. This is his fourth Best XI selection.

The Swedish superstar made a smooth transition from the English Premier League to Major League Soccer. He led the expansion team with nine assists. His vision and creativity helped spark the Sounders' run to the playoffs – only the third expansion team in MLS history to qualify.

Donovan scored 12 goals on his way to leading the Galaxy to the playoffs for the first time since 2005. Donovan captained a Galaxy squad that finished as the top seed in the Western Conference playoffs, after last year finishing tied for last in the conference. Donovan was named to the MLS All-Star team for the ninth time this season and it's his third time on the Best XI.

The rugged forward, seen playing for the U.S. national team, on, notched 16 goals in 24 games. Casey finished second in the Golden Boot race. He won MLS Player of the Week three times this season and was Player of the Month for May.

The 33-year-old 12-year veteran scored a career-high 17 goals to lead MLS and win the Golden Boot scoring title. He also had eight assists. He is second all-time in career goals with 121, behind only Jaime Moreno (131). This marks the third Best XI for Cunningham.

The 14-year MLS veteran was voted the 2009 Goalkeeper of the Year and Comeback Player of the Year after leading all goalkeepers with 0.87 goals against average and 12 shutouts, and leading Chivas USA to a fourth consecutive playoff appearance.